Choosing a platinum ring involves understanding its unique properties, verifying its authenticity, and selecting a style that suits your taste.
Key Considerations When Choosing Platinum
When selecting a platinum ring, focus on purity, weight, design, and ensuring you are buying from a reputable source.
Understanding Platinum Purity
Platinum jewelry is known for its high purity levels. The most common standard for platinum in fine jewelry is 950.
- The 950 Mark: If a platinum ring is marked with 950 (or Pt950), it signifies that the metal composition is 950 parts per thousand, meaning it is 95% pure platinum alloyed with other metals (like iridium, ruthenium, or cobalt) for durability.
- Authenticity Check: If the ring is not marked 950, it's likely that the ring has less than 50% platinum, or possibly none at all. Always look for the official hallmark stamped on the inside of the band.
Feeling the Difference: Weight and Density
Platinum is significantly denser than gold, which gives it a distinct feel.
- Heft and Weight: The purity level may also be recognizable in the heft of the ring – platinum is a denser metal, so it feels heavier than other metals, especially when compared with gold. A genuine platinum ring will feel noticeably heavier than a similarly sized gold ring.
- Durability: This density also contributes to platinum's durability and resistance to wear.
Style and Design
Platinum's strength and natural white luster make it ideal for various ring styles.
- Stone Setting: Platinum's secure grip is excellent for holding diamonds and other gemstones, providing peace of mind.
- Popular Styles: Consider different designs such as:
- Solitaire (single center stone)
- Pave (small diamonds covering the band)
- Halo (center stone surrounded by smaller stones)
- Three-stone
- Classic band
- Maintenance: While platinum doesn't tarnish, it can develop a patina over time, which is a subtle matte finish. This is often desired, but the original polish can be restored.
Budget
Platinum is generally more expensive than gold due to its rarity, density, and high purity levels in jewelry.
- Cost Factors: The price will depend on the ring's platinum weight, the complexity of the design, and any stones included.
- Long-Term Value: Consider platinum as a long-term investment due to its durability and lasting appeal.
Verifying Authenticity
To ensure you are purchasing a genuine platinum ring, buy from a reputable jeweler.
- Trustworthy Retailers: A well-established jeweler will provide proper certification or appraisal and guarantee the metal's purity and markings.
Comparing Platinum and Gold Rings
Here’s a quick comparison based on some key properties:
| Feature | Platinum | Gold (e.g., 14k or 18k) |
|---|---|---|
| Purity | Often 95% (marked 950) | Varies (e.g., 58.5% for 14k, 75% for 18k) |
| Density | Denser | Less dense |
| Weight | Feels heavier | Feels lighter |
| Color | Naturally white | Yellow, White (alloyed), Rose |
| Marking | Typically 950 / Pt | Varies (e.g., 14k, 585, 18k, 750) |
| Price | Generally higher | Generally lower |
By focusing on the purity mark, feeling the weight, exploring different styles, and purchasing from a trusted source, you can confidently choose the perfect platinum ring.
